The Strategic Mailing Partnership has revealed its 2026 awards shortlist ahead of the annual presentation ceremony at London’s Steel Yard.
Recognising excellence across direct mail performance, supply chain sustainability, and emerging young talent, the shortlist for the Strategic Mailing Partnership (SMP) Awards 2026 has been officially unveiled. Following judging sessions bringing together expertise from across the mail supply chain, shortlisted finalists across four distinct categories will compete at London’s historic Steel Yard venue.
Contenders shortlisted for the Mail Performance Award include Eight Group, Paragon, PDV, Precision Proco, The Dragonfly Agency, Webmart & Paperplanes, and Whistl Doordrop Media. The category evaluates direct mail campaigns that exceeded client expectations through audience targeting, creative pack design, and seamless customer journey integration.
Focusing on lifecycle environmental improvements, the Sustainable Campaign category selected APS Group and Webmart as finalists for initiatives that reduced supply chain carbon emissions, minimised waste, and enhanced carbon reporting. Meanwhile, the Bright Futures Award spotlights rising talent aged 18 to 35 across account management, planning, marketing, and business development. Shortlisted nominees comprise Aiden Lucas, Anya Mawdsley, Callan Danvers, Francesca Baker, Isabel Mann, Isobel Arnold, Rosie Whitcomb, and Sam Malanda.
Introduced for 2026, the Lifetime Achievement Award honours individuals who have contributed over 20 years of leadership, mentoring, and innovation to the sector. The inaugural nominees include Bob Carter from BBS Ltd, Lance Hill from Eight Group, Mairi Ball from Paragon, Paul Brough from Brough Consulting Limited, and Phil Newton from PSE Agency.
Supported by gold sponsor Whistl alongside industry partners including Canon, Landa, Ricoh, Premier Paper, Citipost Mail, CFH, and JICMAIL, the winners will be crowned during the SMP Annual Networking and Awards Evening. Complimentary tickets are available for print producers, print managers, and agencies.